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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Being An Alzheimer S Patient, Why Is My Mom S Foot Dark Blue In Color?

My mother, an Alzheimer s patient, has a dark blue discoloration in both of her feet. Her cardiologist has administered an electocardiogram and nuclear stress test determining that her she has not heart problems. What else could be causing this discoloration. There are no signs of swelling.
Thu, 5 Jun 2014
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Geriatrics Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,
Dark blue discoloration usually indicates ischemia. As the ECG and Nuclear stress test has been done, cardiac problems are ruled out.

Ischemia in the periphery is a possibility that needs to be thought of. Due to arterial insufficiency there is not enough blood reaching the foot to provide oxygen and nutrient needs required for the cells to continue the function. Swelling wont be there in ischemic condition.

It could possibly chronic critical limb ischemia.

Evaluation can be done feeling the foot, is it cold compared to other areas, is there associated skin dryness or loss of hair at the area.

If any of these are there, you can ask your doctor to prescribe a arterial doppler testing to check for blood flow.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further queries, do ask again.
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Being An Alzheimer S Patient, Why Is My Mom S Foot Dark Blue In Color?

Hi, Dark blue discoloration usually indicates ischemia. As the ECG and Nuclear stress test has been done, cardiac problems are ruled out. Ischemia in the periphery is a possibility that needs to be thought of. Due to arterial insufficiency there is not enough blood reaching the foot to provide oxygen and nutrient needs required for the cells to continue the function. Swelling wont be there in ischemic condition. It could possibly chronic critical limb ischemia. Evaluation can be done feeling the foot, is it cold compared to other areas, is there associated skin dryness or loss of hair at the area. If any of these are there, you can ask your doctor to prescribe a arterial doppler testing to check for blood flow. Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further queries, do ask again.